Why the Greatest Western of the 2010s Is a Remake That Totally Outshines the Original
The Coens revisit True Grit
The Coen Brothers adapted Charles Portis’ story for their 2010 film, more than 40 years after the original reached theaters in 1969. Their version stars Jeff Bridges as Rooster Cogburn, alongside Matt Damon and Hailee Steinfeld, in her film debut.
The film was praised for its cast, Roger Deakins’ cinematography and dialogue that combines dark humor with emotional weight. The article describes it as a major Western and places it among the genre’s finest films.
A different Rooster Cogburn
John Wayne’s performance in the 1969 film earned him his only Academy Award for acting. The article says the win may have reflected his broader career as much as that role, while still calling it one of his better performances.
It characterizes the original as an average, ultimately forgettable film, with Glen Campbell’s performance singled out for criticism. By contrast, Bridges is described as remarkable, and the chemistry among Bridges, Damon and Steinfeld gives the remake a distinct feel.
Melancholy shapes the remake
The 2010 film emphasizes sadness in the West, rather than the original’s rough-and-tumble adventure. The article links that tone to the Coens’ distinctive approach to stories, which balances hopelessness and sorrow with humor and joy.
The filmmakers are known for Fargo and No Country for Old Men, and the article notes their interest in the Western genre. It expresses hope that The Ballad of Buster Scruggs will not be their final Western.
Key points
- The Coen Brothers’ True Grit arrived in 2010, more than 40 years after the 1969 film.
- Jeff Bridges stars as Rooster Cogburn, with Matt Damon and Hailee Steinfeld in supporting roles.
- The remake’s tone focuses on the West’s melancholy rather than rough-and-tumble adventure.
- John Wayne won his only acting Academy Award for the 1969 film.